Real Madrid to Build $1 Billion Artificial Island Resort

How's this for a real kicker? Spanish club Real Madrid has announced plans to create an eye-poppingly extravagant artificial island in the balmy waters off the UAE.

The Real Madrid Resort Island will cost an estimated US$1billion to construct, and will include five-star hotels, beachside bungalows, a marina and a sports training complex boasting a 10,000 seat football stadium.

The stadium looks set to be a destination unto itself, with one side open and facing the sea. The cherry on the billion dollar cake? A high-tech amusement park that will feature a holographic display of the football club's past and present glories on the pitch.

Real Madrid says the complex is expected to be unveiled to the public in the first quarter of 2015.